Countless patients only learn of their cancer during routine check-ups with their GP or dentist, even when symptoms have begun to appear.
Ryan Anthony’s battle began when he showed up to his dentist with a hallmark symptom of the disease, in his mouth.
In a recent discussion on the YouTube channel The Patient Story, the father of two opened up about his stage 4 neck and head cancer diagnosis and the uncertainty it entails.
“I had a tumour on the side of my tongue," he shared. "At the time, I didn’t know that, but in retrospect, I had something that resembled a callous, like a white spot on the side of my tongue.
Ryan had a spot on his tongue for about a decade
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“I probably had it for 10 years. Every time I went to the dentist, they would look at it, and they would ask me about it."
Despite his dentist keeping a close eye on the growth, it continued to worsen. Things went downhill when Ryan accidentally bit the spot, triggering a rapid decline.
“This time it would not heal,” he disclosed. “It would get better over a few days or a couple of weeks, then would become lacerated again.”
It wasn't until a hygiene appointment in 2022 that his dentist sounded the alarm and urged him to "go and see an oral surgeon to look at it".
He subsequently underwent a partial tongue removal surgery and extensive treatments, including radiation and chemotherapy.
Ryan spoke at length about the emotional impact of his diagnosis on his family.
He also reiterated the importance of taking charge of his treatment and his ongoing participation in clinical trials to find the best treatment.
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Regular dentist visits play a crucial role in the early detection of cancer
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His case serves as a crucial reminder that regular dentist visits play an important role in the detection of oral cancer.
Doctor Piamkamon Vacharotayangul, told the Harvard School of Dental Medicine: “If you see a bump or a sore in your mouth that sticks around for more than two weeks and makes you worry, don’t wait around.
“Get in touch with your dentist or doctor as soon as you can. They’ll give a good look and let you know what to do now.
“Early detection is key, especially when it comes to your oral health. So, if you have any doubts or worries, it’s best to get them checked out sooner rather than later.”
